Just come out as gay

Hi @wellypen23. I think it's important to remember that being gay doesn't change anything about your overall character, and the people who think less of you for being gay are not worth having in your life. Also, no matter what happens and how people respond, I think it's important to remember to love yourself unconditionally and to believe that you're not undeserving of being treated with just as much respect and decency as anyone else. Reaching out to people who u feel comfortable with/trust and talking about your struggles or how you feel is important too. We all need help in life sometimes to figure things out. Hang in there and remember to follow your heart, regardless of any negativity that may come your way.

@wellypen23 Hi there. First I'll state the big make sure you feel safe. If you think coming out could endanger your safety I would weigh the pros and cons of clearing your conscience versus your personal safety. I'd always take your safety as priority number one personally. I'm in a red state where attitudes aren't great towards lgbt+ people so I'm not out publicly but my friends know and I have dating profiles but I am always aware of the consequences and prepared for the worst situation to happen with backup plans prepared. If it's safe to come out and you want to come out I'd take it in small steps. For me it was to tell one person I trusted and it was easier for me to just say 'I'm gay and I wanted you to know' but you have to think about what feels right to say for you. Whatever phrase you want to use works. After I'd told one person it was easier and I told a second, then next thing I'd know I'd told all my friends. I don't have the experience of telling a relative so I can just give general advice there of trying to tell them in a place you're comfortable and the next part is your choice (For me I'd rather the person not be busy with another task so that they can absorb the information and tell me how they feel about it if they choose but some people can't deal with that and would rather the person be doing something menial and slightly distracting so they don't have to focus on the situation too much and overthink things. It's up to you what environment you set up to tell that person) if you are worried about your family not accepting you it may be comforting to research places you can go stay like with a friend or a shelter if things go badly but I'd be prepared with resources to help you if things were to go badly. I hope your decisions go well and that you are accepted by any you share it with if you so decide! Good luck!